Tesla has implemented a significant change to its Robotaxi service, with vehicles now operating on Austin highways. However, opinions on the impact of this update are divided.
Starting September 1, 2025, Tesla’s Robotaxi fleet expanded its operations to include highways around Austin, Texas, marking a considerable advancement from its previous pilot program limited to surface streets.
Previously, a human “Safety Monitor” occupied the front passenger seat, acting as a safety driver to intervene if the Full-Self-Drive (FSD) system posed a risk to passengers.
This highway driving initiative relocates the Safety Monitor to the driver’s seat, enabling quicker intervention at higher speeds if an issue arises.
EXPLORE SBX CARS – Supercar auctions starting soon powered by Supercar Blondie
Tesla makes major change to Robotaxi service using Austin’s highways
Tesla’s Robotaxi service, after some initial challenges, has generally been well-received.
The EV automaker is now permitting the service on Austin highways, a step up from its previous surface street restriction.
The key modification is the position of the Safety Monitor. Previously seated in the front passenger seat to take over if the FSD system malfunctioned.
With this highway expansion, the Safety Monitor now occupies the driver’s seat for quicker intervention during high-speed highway travel.
Robotaxis will be travelling on Austin’s highways
Coinciding with the highway expansion, new regulations mandate stricter human oversight unless the service achieves true Level 4-5 autonomy. While Tesla markets its Robotaxis as driverless, regulations dictate otherwise.
The presence of a monitor in the car effectively downgrades the system to Level 2 autonomy, ensuring compliance with Texas law.
Some critics suggest the Safety Monitor’s relocation is more about perception than actual safety, arguing that the passenger seat placement previously created a false impression of complete autonomy.
Regardless of differing opinions on its autonomous capabilities, Austin residents should anticipate seeing Tesla Robotaxis on the highways.
DISCOVER SBX CARS:
The global premium car auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie